The Pulpit Commentary - Matthew 7:24-27
Parallel passage: Luke 6:47-49 (cf. also Ezekiel 13:10-16 ). A solemn close to the sermon. By the similitude of two builders our Lord warns his followers that to have heard his words will have been useless unless they put them into practice. Observe that although the word " hear ' in these verses cannot indicate that full " hearing " which it sometimes connotes ( Matthew 10:14 ), yet it seems to mean more than merely listening, and to imply both a grasp of what is intended by... read more
The Pulpit Commentary - Matthew 7:21-29
The title to the kingdom. As our Lord concludes his sermon, bringing us before the judgment-seat, so should we habitually judge ourselves as in the searching light of eternity. He advises us— I. THAT BY TRUE OBEDIENCE TO THE WILL OF GOD WE PROVE TITLE TO THE KINGDOM . 1 . That will is embodied in the "sayings" of Jesus. 2 . Profession is no substitute for obedience. 3 . Zeal in the cause of religion is no substitute for religion. The... read more